MAPUSA
The devastating fire at Vasco market, which gutted several shops and caused losses worth crores of rupees, has raised concerns over fire safety in Mapusa, with a local resident calling for urgent intervention to prevent a similar tragedy at North Goa’s busiest commercial hub.
In a representation to the Deputy Collector, Bardez, dated October 29, Atmaram D. Gadekar has sought a joint fire-safety inspection of the Mapusa Municipal Market, questioning the preparedness of authorities responsible for safeguarding traders, shoppers and public property.
Joint safety inspection
With Diwali expected to draw larger crowds, Gadekar has called on the Mapusa Municipal Council, Fire and Emergency Services, Electricity Department, police and Mapusa Market Association to jointly verify the functioning of all accessible fire hydrants, conduct an electrical safety audit and ensure that emergency vehicles have unobstructed access to the market.
Check hazards, ensure access
He has also sought inspections of firefighting equipment, clear evacuation routes, adequate emergency signage and effective crowd management. Congested passages and unsafe electrical installations, he warned, could worsen the consequences of a fire.
Gadekar has urged the authorities to address potential hazards before disaster strikes rather than act only after lives and livelihoods have been lost.
Action report within seven days
He has sought a written inspection report detailing safety lapses, corrective measures and the officers or agencies responsible for compliance. He has also demanded an action-taken report within seven days, stressing that immediate hazards must be addressed without waiting for the deadline.
The onus is now on the authorities to act on these warnings before the Diwali rush and address potential vulnerabilities at the market.
